Photographer's Note

Istanbul has no shortage of houses of worship, and the Bulgarian Church of St. Stephen set along the shore of the Golden Horn blends in with its holy brethren at first glance; upon closer inspection, however, this cross-shaped basilica is like few others in the world.

Born of an early 19th century period of architectural experimentation in prefabrication, St. Stephen is made entirely out of cast iron. Even to this day, the walls are metal and spots of rust bloom from its interior archways like scarified flowers. The church consists of poured iron slabs that were floated on cargo ships from Vienna, down the Danube River, across the Black Sea, through the Bosphorus, only to then be assembled on-site.

Recently it's been renovated with funds both from Bulgaria and Turkey and is been reopened again on 6th of January, where both Turkish and Bulgarian presidents held speeches.

Well done on the presentation and note. Good to see that Christianity is alive and well in Turkey. Our roots with Paul come from your fine country. Sharp images with an awesome note. Thanks for sharing.

Hello Mesut,
great teh view as the presentation of the Bulgarian church of St.Stephan,with its golden decorations to are the eye catching of the scene.The brilliant light enhance even more the beauty,the architectural style as the details of it.

Hi Mesut,excellent idea this collage with 2 different points of view,the best way to show us this wonderful architechture very well preserved,great exposure and sharpness,i like it! Have a nice evening and thanks,Luciano

Hi, Mesut.
A beautiful and original construction of this church, unknown to me, because I had not seen before, splendid POV, in these two images.
Sharpness, lighting, color, and the magnificent composition; they are all perfectly realized factors, in this beautiful image.
Well done. I like very much.
You have a good day.
Very best regards.
Luis.